Modular Ladder System with Detachable Walkway

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing ladder systems lack a safe and efficient means to span between two points, particularly in applications requiring access to high shelves or inventory, and often require complex assembly and adjustments.

Innovation Solution

A combination of two rollable ladders with a detachable intermediate walkway that includes swingable gates and handrails, allowing easy assembly and providing a stable working platform with a load-bearing capacity, featuring bolt connections for quick setup and use.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a traditional ladder system is used to access high shelves, then the structure is simple, but it lacks a safe and efficient means to span between two points and requires complex assembly and adjustments

Engineering Contradiction:

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The ladder system is divided into separate modular components including individual ladders, a detachable walkway, handrails, and gates. Each component can be independently assembled and detached, allowing for easy setup and reconfiguration without complex adjustments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines multiple ladder systems with a connecting walkway to create an integrated platform structure. This merging of separate ladder units with a bridging element provides a stable working surface while maintaining the simplicity of individual ladder components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed walkway structure is used to span between ladders, then the spanning capability is provided, but the assembly becomes complex and adjustments are required

Engineering Contradiction:

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The walkway is designed with detachable connections that allow it to be dynamically assembled and disassembled. The connection mechanism enables the walkway to be quickly attached to and removed from the ladder systems without permanent fixation or complex adjustment procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The walkway and connection components are pre-configured with attachment features that align with the ladder structures. This preliminary design of connection points and mounting interfaces allows for rapid assembly without requiring on-site adjustments or modifications.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If a detachable walkway is used to provide versatility, then the adaptability is improved, but the structural stability may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The connection system incorporates built-in stabilization features and load-bearing design elements that compensate for the detachable nature of the walkway. These pre-engineered connection points and support structures ensure structural integrity and safety even when the walkway can be easily detached for reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentUS20250092693A1Ladder system with attached walkway

Publication Date: 2025.03.20

AI summary

A ladder system includes a first ladder, a second ladder, and an intermediate walkway spanning between the first and second ladders. The ladders may be rollable and the walkway may be detachable. The ladders may include a swingable gate between the side of the ladder and the walkway which permits access onto the walkway.